Chinese students mourned at Univeristy of Alberta vigil

As darkness gathered, they came together on the snow-covered quad at the University of Alberta, their young faces softly illuminated by the gold-tinged glow of flickering candlelight.

They came to honour their friends, their classmates, and it was especially difficult and poignant that they did so on this of all nights, the Eve of Chinese New Year.

About 150 people attended the vigil on campus, held to honour three international students who died earlier this week in highway crash just south of the city.

“All three students began their studies full of hope and promise,” Olive Yonge, the university’s interim provost told the silent mourners. “We can only imagine the difficult days that lie ahead, as you come to terms with the loss of your friends.”

Three people died and one was injured when their SUV rolled.

Edison Chen, a student at U of A, came to campus to show his respect and share in the common grief.

“I’m not an international student” he said, “but as a Chinese person, today is a special night for us, it’s the Chinese New Year’s Eve. It’s really touching to see the support, and to see how strong this bond is within our community.”